Home 10 Best Dog Food For Chihuahua (Review)

10 Best Dog Food For Chihuahua (Review)

If you buy through links in this article, we may earn a commission. This policy helps support the website's operation. Learn more.

Person Feeds a Long Haired ChihuahuaIf I did a count of how many people love Сhihuahuas, the number would be huge. Its a very playful dog, hence loved by many. The only challenge they pose is feeding them right.

Better feeding habits helps minimize the trips to the veterinarian. So, what are the best dog food for Chihuahua? Besides being nutritious, dogs should love the food you give them. But how do you achieve both of these goals? Below is a discussion on this issue.

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Dry Dog Food

Our Top Choice:

For those seeking for great quality for the money, we recommend the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua. This kibble is tailored for the specific breed, thus has ideal balance of proteins, fats, and nutrients to help your Chihuahua feel well and stay healthy.

Comparison Table

Features:
Our Rating:
Buy from:
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua
  • Coarsely grounded pellet
  • Nutritious diet
  • Digestible proteins
  • Adequate fiber and biotin
5
Purina Pro Plan Small & Toy Breed Formula Adult Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Small & Toy Breed Formula
  • New recipes
  • High chicken protein
  • Great energy source
4.9
Iams Proactive Health Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food - Chicken
Iams Proactive Health Small Breed
  • Pioneers of food animal proteins made food
  • Plant-sourced proteins
  • Chicken protein and fat
4.8
Nulo Puppy & Adult Small Breed Freestyle Limited Plus Grain Free Dry Dog Food: All Natural Limited Ingredient Diet for Digestive & Immune Health
Nulo Puppy & Adult Small Breed
  • Suitable for diabetic and allergic dogs
  • Turkey flavor
  • Patented GanedenBC Probiotic
4.8
Eukanuba Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken - Small Breed
Eukanuba Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Affordable
  • It has quality animal protein
  • Small kibbles
4.7
Nutro Wholesome Essentials Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for Small & Toy Breeds
Nutro Wholesome Essentials Small Breed
  • Organic ingredients
  • Chicken flavored
  • Lower carbohydrate content
4.7
Nature's Recipe Grain Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin
Nature's Recipe Grain Free Small Breed
  • Elevated energy levels
  • Non-diabetic food
  • Complementary protein
4.7
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Puppy Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Puppy
  • Perfect for puppies
  • High digestible ingredients
  • Ideal for selective eaters
4.6
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food
  • Scientifically researched
  • Strictly measured portions
  • Flaxseed and coconut oil ingredients
4.6
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dog Food – Natural Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs – Fish and Brown Rice
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
  • Health-focused diet
  • Fish sourced protein
  • Vital mineral and vitamins
4.7

A Quick Apprisal of the Best Dog Food for Chihuahua

Sometimes, the veterinary is busy or charges a consultation fee for such simple issues. However, being informed improves the choices consumers arrive at. The following discussion about them will solve this mystery.

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Dry Dog FoodRoyal Canin is a company committed to producing food that meets the nutritional demands of the various canine types. On this occasion, they have produced a product that is supposed to cater to the respective needs of a purebred adult Chihuahua. The following are attributes that best describe this product.

  • Coarsely grounded pellet

The Chihuahua’s alimentary canal is not large enough. Therefore, it has to be selective about what it consumes. The small Royal Canin pellets serve this need right.

  • Nutritious diet

Royal Canin prides itself on working closely with animal scientists and veterinarians. They believe that scientific facts result in developing nutritionally fit dog food.

  • Digestible proteins

Does your little friend have an abnormal dog’s stool? The digestible proteins in this formulation will help you correct this. The protein minimizes the time taken by food in its gastrointestinal tract.

  • Adequate fiber and biotin

The fiber smoothens the digestion process. Also, present is biotin and a combination of Omega 6 and 3 fatty acids. They help improve their immunity levels. Moreover, it has an aroma that boosts appetite.

Pros

  • Perfect for a Chihuahua that is eight months and above
  • It has a mouthwatering aroma
  • The manufacturers use a specific quantity of fiber and digestible proteins
  • It has a coarsely grounded pellet

Cons

  • Unsuitable for dogs that hate corn

Buy on Amazon

Purina Pro Plan Small & Toy Breed Formula Adult Dry Dog FoodIf you are looking for something new and exciting for your dog, Purina has got you covered. Their Pro Plan gets you sorted on the next level nutrients that improve your canine’s quality of life. Here is an illustration of what it offers.

  • New recipes

Purina is famous in the dog food arena. Certain aspects have contributed to its fame. Their trend of developing new and exciting dog foods is among them.

  • High chicken protein

Chicken makes a large portion of this food. Its role is supplying protein content. They promote a healthier body and skin, including better immunity.

  • Great energy source

Whole grain corn is used to supply the required carbohydrates. These are crucial for any proactive animal. They replenish energy lost during its activeness.

Pros

  • It contains probiotics that contribute to better immunity
  • High levels of chicken protein
  • It heals the skin from sensitivity and itchiness

Cons

  • Customers remain skeptical about the unspecified poultry by-products as ingredients

Buy on Amazon

Iams Proactive Health Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food - ChickenIAMS has a distinguished reputation. People trust them because, for one, they have been in the industry longer. Also, they have remained committed to producing products that are in line with the customer’s needs. The following are the attributes of their Iams for small breeds.

  • Pioneers of food animal proteins made food

The company pioneered the use of animal-sourced proteins in developing pet foods. They have only become better over the years of production.

  • Plant-sourced proteins

Corn enhances the food’s digestibility. Therefore, your vet may propose using Iams for dogs experiencing digestive issues. The minerals lead to well-built bones formation.

  • Chicken protein and fat

Chicken helps supply protein and fat nutrients. The protein improves their health. Fat provides omega-six fatty acids for great bone formation. Also, chicken is a favorite delicacy among Chihuahuas.

Pros

  • IAMs argues that the formula contains prebiotics
  • It is a worthy consideration when low on cash
  • It eliminates skin irritations

Cons

  • The company has been messing up with the formula combination

Buy on Amazon

The Founders of Nulo were initially engaging in pet-sitting business. They observed how most clients injected pets with diabetic injections. Their research revealed that excess carbohydrates intake was to blame. Therefore, they decided to find a viable solution to this issue.

  • Suitable for diabetic and allergic dogs

A significant motivation for starting their company was to manufacture dog meals with more animal proteins and minimal or no plant-sourced carbohydrates. They figured out that such a combination would help ensure that the canine is getting the right nutrients to the right portions.

  • Turkey flavor

As part of keeping up the tradition, the freestyle of Turkey contains 80% of proteins obtained from animals. For example, turkey meat. Therefore, you can quickly tell which animal flavor the dog loves.

  • Patented GanedenBC Probiotic

The food also has its patented GanedenBC Probiotic that helps boost your dog’s immunity. It also facilitates healthier immune metabolism.

Pros

  • Its ingredient combination makes it an excellent choice for a Chihuahua with diabetes and allergy issues
  • It has a patented GanedenBC probiotic
  • Has higher protein that comes with a turkey flavor

Cons

  • The price is a switch off to most customers

Buy on Amazon

Eukanuba Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken - Small BreedSometimes tight budgets may be a hindrance to how well we can treat our canine friends. There are not many companies producing quality food that is not premium priced. However, Eukanuba defies these odds, as shown in the characteristics below.

  • Affordable

One award-winning thing about Eukanuba is their unmatchable quality but affordable dog food. Their zero product recall is enough product quality evidence. Their fine recipes cater for the various growth stages demands.

  • It has quality animal protein

In terms of lean muscle growth, the chicken component fulfills this demand. Therefore, your Chihuahua’s leg can easily support its body.

  • Small kibbles

The kibbles are small, hence safe for the jaws. On the other hand, the dry beet pulp added on this food ensures that it has enough fiber and provides a probiotic substance required to maintain a healthy digestive tract for your dog.

Pros

  • It has a reputation for being quality but still affordable
  • The chicken protein helps facilitate the growth of leaner muscles
  • Vitamin E and DHA help in brain development

Cons

  • Customers complain that sometimes the packaging is of poor quality

Buy on Amazon

Nutro Wholesome Essentials Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for Small & Toy BreedsOur opinions define the lifestyles we chose. Certain people prefer eating only organic foods. Your Chihuahua can be part of this lifestyle too through the Nutro wholesome diet.

  • Organic ingredients

Nutro believes in using naturally sourced ingredients in making their products. It contains a combination of products got from animals and plants. For example, this recipe has a mixture of domesticated chicken, sweet potatoes, and brown rice.

  • Chicken flavored

The chicken flavor makes it appealing to the dog. Also, it is a source of animal meat protein. Thus a better fit for stronger muscles and bone growth.

  • Lower carbohydrate content

Part of this recipe is brown rice combined with sweet potatoes. What they have in common are carbohydrate levels. They also increase the food’s digestibility.

Pros

  • It contains glucosamine and chondroitin for better skeletal growth
  • The chicken input provides dogs with enough strength
  • It has enough carbohydrates

Cons

  • It lacks the probiotic components

Buy on Amazon

Nature's Recipe Grain Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken, Sweet Potato & PumpkinDo you prefer feeding your canine natural formulas? Nature’s recipe makes this a possibility. Here is how.

  • Elevated energy levels

The chicken, pumpkin, and sweet are gentle on the gastrointestinal tract. They are proven non-grain sources of energy for a canine.

  • Non-diabetic food

The ingredients also mean that diabetes for excessive gluten consumption should not bother you. The chicken provides protein for muscular growth of the dog.

  • Complementary protein

It contains a complementary chicken meal. The meal complements the protein content lost when drying off the chicken meat moisture. Therefore, this food facilitates a healthier growth of your Chihuahua’s.

Pros

  • It supports an active and healthy lifestyle
  • The grain-free carbohydrates are healthy for diabetic dogs
  • The pumpkin provides dietary fiber

Cons

  • The price of Nature’s products is always steep

Buy on Amazon

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Puppy Dry Dog FoodAs I had earlier mentioned, Royal Canin presents you with all the options you need. Included in these options is something for your puppies. They have something special for them, as shown by the diet’s attributes.

  • Perfect for puppies

Most people ask, what is the best dog food for Сhihuahua puppies? Royal Canin has prepared a product that meets your growing puppy’s needs. The small kibbles are an example of meeting these needs. The objective is to increase their chewability and digestibility.

  • High digestible ingredients

The puppy food’s main ingredients provide the highly digestible types of proteins and carbohydrates. Therefore, the dogs excrete less smelly poop.

  • Ideal for selective eaters

Most Сhihuahuas like a particular type of food. Thus, having specially manufactured by-products of chicken, brewers rice, and whole-grain corn as the main ingredients helps solve this problem.

Pros

  • It has smaller kibbles
  • It encourages gum, bone, eye and teeth development in a young puppy
  • It contains antioxidants

Cons

  • It lacks relevant amino acids

Buy on Amazon

Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dry Dog FoodRelying on research to make canine food is an emerging trend today. Increased cases of food recalls have played a role in this new approach. Hill’s Science is positively embracing the trend.

  • Scientifically researched

Hill’s Science reputation is of producing pet food while strictly relying on scientific research. The specially crafted chicken provides animal protein to a canine. Therefore, mouthwatering chicken taste also contributes to the formation of lean muscles.

  • Strictly measured portions

Part of being precise also includes explicitly adding the right measures of ingredients. It is a strategy that favorably reduces your dog’s obesity.

  • Flaxseed and coconut oil ingredients

For fiber and essential omega-six fatty acids, this recipe utilizes flaxseed. It also provides necessary minerals and vitamin B. The meal is enriched with coconut oil and L-carnitine that promote a healthier metabolism for your Chihuahua.

Pros

  • It spurs leaner muscle development
  • It contains coconut oil for a healthier metabolism
  • It does not promote weight gain

Cons

  • Its quality is compromised by over-reliance on plant-sourced ingredients

Buy on Amazon

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dog Food – Natural Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs – Fish and Brown RiceBlue Buffalo is a family company that does not require much of an introduction to the pet food industry. With their experience, they have found a unique way of differentiating themselves. They have turned focused on producing food for healthier living.

  • Health-focused diet

The company’s competitive strategy is the production of food that addresses the specific health issues on your pet. Such problems include allergies, intolerance to gluten, diabetes, and growth-stage requirements.

  • Fish sourced protein

I know you were wondering when I would mention a product that has fish in it. Blue Buffalo uses deboned white salmon that promotes healthy Сhihuahua growth. Moreover, it contains DHA and omega 3&6 fatty acids that facilitate the robust growth of your Chihuahua’s skin and also aid in brain development.

  • Vital mineral and vitamins

The ingredients also provide crucial vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. These are effective in improving your dog’s immune system. Therefore, there is much to be achieved in terms of disease prevention.

Pros

  • The antioxidants help in detoxing, hence minimizing illness
  • It contains only fish flavors
  • The fish ingredient helps in providing omega 3 and 6 fatty acids

Cons

  • The protein content may be too high for inactive dogs

Buy on Amazon

How to Purchase Nutritious Chihuahua Food

What is the best dog food for Chihuahua? Everyone has what they look for when purchasing these foods. Here is a summary of factors worth looking into.

What Is the Appropriate Ration for Feeding My Chihuahua Puppy?

Despite their young age and size, the Chihuahua puppy grows rapidly. As such, extensive nutrients to sustain this growth and remain healthy. To understand the correct puppy ration, take note of its weight. However, from a general perspective, a healthy, active Chihuahua puppy should consume about fifty calories for each pound of its body weight. It is also important to note that your puppy’s food ration can also be determined through its age.

How Do I Achieve Economies of Scale on My Chihuahua’s Food?

Once sure of the correct puppy food quantity, determining how to achieve economies of scale becomes a simpler task. One way to do it is by mixing and switching to new foods that are affordable. However, this plan will require you to know to mix the rations. For example:

What is the Proper Ration for Feeding My Chihuahua?

Research has shown that the nutritional demand of an adult Сhihuahua is somewhere close to two hundred calories each day. The majority of small breed dog food being sold have about 300 to 500 calories for a cup. For an adult to achieve its nutritional requirements, it should consume about 35 to 40 calories for each pound of the dog’s body. Therefore, the average spend on an adult Chihuahua’s food is less than their puppies.

At What Frequency Should I Feed My Chihuahua?

Adult black Chihuahua dog with a tongue outThe small size of Chihuahuas means that they are more vulnerable to conditions such as canine hypoglycemia if left hungry for long. In this regard, it is essential to maintain a regular and consistent feeding habit and schedule of your Chihuahua. According to research by breeders, a puppy Сhihuahua with an age of fewer than three months should be fed four times a day. Puppies between three to six months must be fed at least three times a day. However, for an adult, two times a day is appropriate.

Common Health Problem Associated with a Chihuahua?

Generally, Chihuahuas are among the healthiest dog breeds. Most of the diseases they are susceptible to are easily treatable, hence extending their life span. These illnesses include:

  • Hypoglycemia: This is a low blood sugar condition associated with poor nutrition.
  • Patellar luxation: It is a hereditary condition that causes kneecap dislocation
  • Dental diseases: They are mainly gum and teeth diseases associated with poor dental hygiene and smallmouth.
  • Trachea collapse: It is a predisposed medical condition that causes their trachea to weaken and collapse.
  • Hydrocephalus: It is a condition caused by excessive buildup of cerebrospinal on its head.

How Do I Choose the Right Food for My Chihuahua?

Determining the correct dog food, including best wet dog food for Chihuahua, is dependent on understanding two things that matter. The first is the nutritional needs of any dog. Next is the dog’s specific needs, for example, its anatomy, health conditions, and growth stage. From there, assess the ingredient composition of the various food brands.

The Nutritious and Harmful Ingredients in Your Chihuahua’s Food- Best Dog Food for Chihuahua Mix

Chihuahuas have a smaller digestive system. Therefore, not every food is great for their alimentary canals. Let’s take a look at what ingredients can benefit or harm them.

Fruit, Vegetables and Whole Grains

Person Feeding Small Brown Chihuahua with Fruit SaladThey are fantastic sources of natural carbohydrates for your dog. They ensure the Chihuahua remains energetic, yet not overweight. Moreover, they provide it with fiber required to maintain its digestive track healthy.

Fiber

Vegetables and whole grains are good sources of fiber to your Chihuahua’s body. They help maintain the digestive metabolism of your dog healthy.

Meat

Animal meat is the most critical source of animal protein in your dog’s food. It helps facilitate a healthier growth of its muscles. Check for recipes with the meat that your Chihuahua loves and avoid food with animal meat by-products.

Foods to Keep Off When Feeding Your Chihuahua

As we have already established, the gastrointestinal tract of a Chihuahua is not a tough one. You can already tell by the pad smell of its stool. Therefore, avoid the following ingredients in its food to avoid more complications.

Chocolate

Avoid giving chocolates to your dog. For starters, it can poison their system. This causes health complications for them.

Onions

For starters, most dogs even hate the smell of onion. Others are very allergic to them. Veterinaries also advise that feeding your Chihuahua onions may cause anemia.

Caffeine

Adult Black And Tan Smooth ChihuahuaEven in humans, caffeine is considered a stimulant. The Chihuahua’s body/ system is not strong enough to handle such stimulants. Excess intake may cause your dog’s heart to race, which is not suitable for its health.

Bones

As I have already mentioned, Chihuahuas are very prone to teeth and gum diseases. Therefore, you do not want to be feeding them food that may cause more damage to them. On the other hand, bones can also damage the digestive tract.

Grapes

Grapes can be very harmful to your dog. The toxicity produced by this fruit can cause damages to its kidney and subsequent failure. Such vital illnesses can lead to its death.

Xylitol

Any artificial preservative or flavor is not advisable on your dog’s food. Specifically, Xylitol is toxic to a Chihuahua as it causes complications to its digestive tract. If consumed in large portions, it can cause medical conditions such as liver failure and hypoglycemia.

Alcohol

Naturally, you are not supposed to feed alcohol to your dog. In small amounts, alcohol toxicity can cause problems such as blood sugar drop, hypothermia, and vomiting. In extreme cases, it can cause conditions such as metabolic acidosis.

Final Thoughts on Best Dog Food for Chihuahua 2020

Chihuahua is enjoyable to be around and are a friendly breed of dog. As established in this article, another great feature about them is that they are not very prone to illnesses, and the adults consume minimal food.

Still wondering what is the best dog food for a Chihuahua? Based on my discussion, the Royal Canin is my top pick for the Сhihuahuas as it is a good fit even for the picky eaters. The brand also includes a category for puppy food and one of the best dog food for German Shepherd pups. However, if you are on a budget and looking for quality food, I would recommend going to Iams food for small dogs. What is your pick on the best diet for little Chihuahua? Which other ingredients do you avoid in your dog’s food?

Images credits: Amazon.com & photo stocks

Related Articles

Author

Susan Cropper

As a veterinarian practicing for 48 years, Dr. Cropper brings her priceless experience to all our readers. She is currently taking care of her two rescues, Ollie the Greyhound and Bryce the Pitbull mix, that is why she always sees things as a veterinarian and a pet owner simultaneously.

View all posts by Susan Cropper | DogsRecommend.com